We couldn’t ask for better weather these days. It’s supposed to last for at least the next seven days. Today was a perfect 23°C with sunshine. Even though it is warm outside, it’s a few degrees colder indoors because of the stone walls that are at least 30” thick. I keep my fleece on in the reception area where I register pilgrims, but shed the jacket as soon as I step outdoors.

After I wrote last night’s post, we had an Egyptian pilgrim arrive. His arrival just before 10 PM brought yesterday’s total to 11 pilgrims. He was the last to leave this morning, soon after Diana (Netherlands) and Elmor (UK). It is hard to believe that Diana and Elmor had only just met on the Camino. They seemed  like lifelong friends, another beautiful reminder of how quickly bonds are formed on this journey.

My head is spinning as I reflect on the day, which turned out to be one of the most memorable birthdays of my life. Yesterday, Janine asked me what my favourite kind of cake was. I thought she meant for the pilgrims, so I told her I loved the apple lemon cake she’s been making. But what she meant was, what is MY favourite cake. Without hesitation, I said, “Carrot cake.” So, this afternoon, in the garden, we all enjoyed a beautifully decorated carrot cake with icing and candles, made especially by Janine for me. She is so thoughtful! What could possibly be better than celebrating a 79th birthday this way, with 13 pilgrims from seven countries and a special friend? There were photos taken, warm hugs, and ‘Happy Birthday’ sung in English and Spanish.

In the midst of afternoon tea which turned into a little birthday party, I got a call from Dave with disappointing news. There’s a 70 per cent chance he won’t be able to meet me in Porto to walk the Portuguese Camino. Air Canada’s pilots are likely to go on strike this weekend. What a huge letdown. Things are so uncertain now and we just have to wait and see what happens. 

During our daily G&T break at the bar, a little ritual that helps Janine and I unwind, Janine gave me a beautiful scallop shell for my birthday. It is the most meaningful symbol of the Camino which I will wear always. Then we returned to the Refugio for a delicious dinner. Janine had prepared roasted chicken and veggies flavoured with herbs from our garden, and a salad. We were joined by Teresa, a pilgrim originally from the U.S. but now living in Majorca. Good food, good company, and engaging conversation all came together perfectly.